4-H sewing group mentored by quilters

By Sam Waller

Prairieland Quilters of Albany recently presented members of the Shackelford County 4-H sewing group with sewing kits in addition to passing along some of their knowledge.

The two groups met together Sunday, Feb. 13 at Shackelford County Library where the 4-Hers were instructed in embroidery as well as receiving boxes containing items such as needles, thread, tape measures, and scissors.

“Ella Mae Walker came up with an idea to help encourage the 4-H girls in sewing,” Prairieland Quilters member Tammy Glover said. “Each of us came up with items we thought were important to have in a sewing box and we made 15 boxes. We fillled the box pretty full.”

Prairieland Quilters has 18 members, as does the 4-H sewing club.

“The ages ranged from second grade to junior high,” Glover said. “It was quite a young group.”

The 4-H sewing project is led by Moran senior Johnnie Hise, whose grandmother Myra Hise is a member of Prairieland Quilters. Johnnie Hise is a Texas 4-H Fashion and Design Ambassador, a group of selected students from across the state who  lead projects at the county level.

“We all recently led the Fashion Retreat at Camp Buckner down at Burnet,” Johnnie said. “My main focus is Shackelford County, but I have worked with others in District 7.”

Glover said the Prairieland Quilters were pleased to have the opportunity to pass along their sewing knowledge.

“It’s important for everyone to learn how to sew, for mending mostly,” she said. “But it’s also an expression of art. I think some of the girls are into clothing design, and sewing will benefit in all areas.”

Hise said the sewing project helps members progress in their skill level over the course of the year.

“We start out with basic straight stitching on a sewing machine,” she said. “Last year, our final project was making a pair of shorts. That’s something I hope to do again this year.”